Youngstown Times

The Ohio House of Representatives has passed House Bill 1, aimed at closing a loophole in current law and banning foreign funding in state ballot issue campaigns. State Rep. Monica Robb Blasdel (R-Columbiana) announced the legislation's passage today.

Currently, both state and federal laws prohibit foreign nationals from donating to political candidates, but they do not address contributions to ballot issues. House Bill 1 seeks to extend these restrictions to include donations for state ballot issues, thereby aiming to protect Ohio’s election integrity and prevent foreign influence on election results.

“Historic decisions to change our constitution should not be determined by foreign nationals,” said Blasdel. “I am pleased the House took action to ban foreign funding in state ballot issues.”

House Bill 1 includes provisions to:

- Prohibit direct and indirect contributions from foreign nationals;

- Ban the spending of funds tied to foreign nationals, including independent expenditures; and

- Ensure independent investigatory and enforcement power by the Ohio Attorney General.

Additionally, the Ohio House passed House Bill 2, which will delay the deadline for major political parties to certify their presidential and vice-presidential candidates for the 2024 general election. This measure aims to ensure that candidates from both major political parties appear on Ohio’s ballots.

“I believe this legislation will directly increase voter turnout and drive the conservative vote in Ohio,” said Blasdel.

Both House Bills 1 and 2 will now proceed to the Ohio Senate for consideration.